ARC Recognizes Village Progress at State of the Region Event

The Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative, launched 15 years ago, has had remarkable impact on the region’s growth, development, and most important, quality of life. Emory Village was one of the early recipients of an LCI grant which has helped transform it into a more livable, walkable, viable meeting place for the whole community. The Village’s progress was one of three success stories highlighted at the ARC’s State of the Region breakfast in October.

In 2003, theEmory Village Revitalization Plan achieved designation as a “Livable Center” by the ARC and received a $2.1 million grant which funded public improvements, such as the streetscape enhancements. The plan also attracted nearly $1 million in matching funds from DeKalb County for traffic, street and pedestrian improvements – including a roundabout to replace the Village’s congested main intersection—and donations that made possible development of the Emory Village Plaza.

In 2007 the county approved new zoning and design guidelines for the village. Today, thousands of residents and Emory personnel enjoy the streetscape improvements and are safely navigating the new roundabout. Almost 40 trees have been planted thoughout the Village, and a fountain and sculpture now grace the new Emory Village Plaza, which has become the welcoming centerpiece of the village.